Blind horse dumped in a field - RSPCA keen to trace owner

Gary Welford

An abandoned and neglected blind horse has been rescued by the RSPCA from a field in County Durham.

The chestnut mare, who the animal charity's staff have called Faith, is thought to be around 11 years old.

Faith is completely blind, and has a large swelling on one of her knees.

She was discovered dumped in a field near Kyo Lane in Stanley, County Durham, by the landowner, who was concerned about her condition and where she had come from.

RSPCA inspector Catherine Richardson said: “Poor Faith is completely blind, has a large swelling on one of her knees, her hooves are overgrown and cracked, and she is in a lean body condition.

“She was struggling to find her footing as she was dumped on a hillside and obviously couldn't see where the ground was.

"It is totally heartbreaking to think that someone could leave her alone in this way, knowing she can't see or fend for herself.

“After the vet examined her it was confirmed that Faith was suffering.

Inspector Richardson added: “Faith isn't micro-chipped, so we currently do not know who owns her, and, more worryingly, it looks as if she has had a foal not too long ago, so we are concerned as to where her foal may be.

“I am really keen to hear from anybody who recognises her or has any information about who owns her and how she came to be abandoned and alone in the field.

"Anyone with information can call me in complete confidence on our inspector’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”

Faith is currently being cared for by vets to see whether she can be treated for her blindness, or will need to be rehomed with an owner experienced in caring for blind horses.